#MCCOTInterview {37}
Tergel Gerelt, the committed-to-the-environment Mongolian-Parisian Fashion designer and entrepreneur, new ambassador of a Slow and eco-conscious luxury Fashion ethically Made in Mongolia
Born and raised in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, Tergel Gerelt has found her happiness and her true path, thousand miles away from her homeland, in Paris the metropolis where she moved in over 20 years ago. In the magical 'Ville Lumière', she fell in love, started a family with her French husband and built a successful career as a business woman. After the recent birth of her third daughter, she suddently felt the deep need to celebrate her Asian roots and pay tribute to Mongolia's rich cultural and natural heritage. After studying in a Parisian Fashion school for two years to get ready for this new exciting and challenging journey, she then established her eponymous ready-to-wear Maison de style Ter[g]el in 2021. A one-of-a-kind young and promising unisex niche brand, whose philosophy is 'Being more than having', that promotes self-acceptance, inclusivity, and body positivity. A limited and premium production of timeless, sophisticated and durable garments and accessories designed in Paris and manufacturing in Mongolia by local skilled craftsmens using the luxurious and sustainable 'Khuuvur', the Mongolian yak wool. Let's meet a free, wild, independent and creative spirit who has no fear to fail. A resourceful, brave and hard worker woman and committed mum of three who is determined to proudly pass on her personal values and her Asian cultural heritage to the next generation. Because it is her duty that her little girls learn more about the beautiful country she comes from. And are able to grew up respecting and cherishing Mother Nature as she did surrounded and guided by an opened-minded and loving family.
By Hélène Battaglia
Who are you?
I am Tergel, born and raised in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia before coming to study and live in Paris. Today, I have spent more than half of my life in Paris. Above all, I am a mother of three little girls, designer and business woman. Lover of life and an epicurean. I like beautiful things and I have a passion for savoring and enjoying the finer things in life.
What brought you from the distant and wild Mongolia, your birth country, to France?
Mongolia is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and history, known for its vast landscapes and nomadic traditions. But I am a curious person. I have had the privilege of being raised by open-minded parents who have given me the opportunity to travel since I was 12. When I was 12, I spent 2 months in the summer in Moscow on my own. At 13, I spent a month in Geneva with a Swiss family on a school exchange. I also had the opportunity to spend some summers with nomads during my childhood, helping to raise cattle such as sheep, horse and cows. All my family is in Mongolia and I have nomadic relatives who continue to live in the traditional way. A great opportunity for personal growth and independence by embracing the chance to explore and satisfy my curiosity in new environment. It allows me to step out of my comfort zone, adapt to new surroundings, and learn about different people, cultures and lifestyles My fate in France was decided by a lottery when I was 12. It's funny. Our class was a test class and at the time we had just come out of Soviet regime. Normally, everyone had to learn Russian. But my school decided to test a class teaching English and French. They allowed us to choose which we preferred. Most students chose English. It was obvious, as there was only one American channel on TV. It was MTV. We didn't yet know anything of France and its language. So to balance things out, my school drew lots and I drew French. Since then, my love for France has grown and grown. It’s fascinating how life can take unexpected turns and lead me to where I am now. France with its rich history, especially in Art and cuisine, offers a fascinating experience to someone like me, coming from “wild”, as you said, Mongolia. As soon as I moved to Paris, I fell in love with this city. After 20 years, I still discover new things every day just by walking down the street. In this city, I met my husband, he is French and we've decided to make a life here. We also spent 5 years together in Mongolia between 2010 and 2015. 5 years for him to understand and learn my culture. This is crucial when it comes to cultural differences.
What has been your career path since today?
I have been in the entrepreneurship for several years. My love for good wine, tasty food, and beautiful things aligns perfectly with my work, allowing me to combine my personal interests with my professional endeavours. I am in the import and distribution of wines and champagnes from Europe to Mongolia. I am passionate about developing entrepreneurship and love being an innovative and creative entrepreneur. I am always looking for new opportunities and seek to work with people who share my values and goals. Nowadays, I have become a consultant for the winery I work for. I am able to further contribute to the growth and success of my business while leveraging my expertise and experience. It's great that my team continues to ship French culture to Mongolian consumers, spreading appreciation for the beauty and quality of French culinary arts.
Why did you recently decide to launch your eponymous and Paris-based ready-to-wear brand?
Launching my eponymous brand is a bold and exciting endeavour. My passion for fashion and for entrepreneurship and the development of innovative ventures drives me to my commitment to my values and goals undoubtedly has led to further achievement new clothing brand. Creating my own clothing brand not only allows me to express my creativity and entrepreneurial spirit but also gives me the opportunity to pass on a part of my culture to my daughters. It's a beautiful way to preserve and celebrate my heritage while also sharing it with others. Additionally, my focus on using luxurious sustainable fibers in my clothing brand is commendable. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the fashion industry, and by incorporating eco-friendly practices and materials, I believe by contributing to a more sustainable future for the next generation. Sharing this luxurious sustainable fiber with my international friends allows me to bridge cultural gaps and introduce them to the beauty and value of my heritage. It's a powerful way to connect with others and foster a sense of appreciation and understanding across diverse cultures. By combining my love for fashion, sustainability, and cultural heritage, I am creating a unique brand that not only represents my personal values but also has the potential to make a positive impact on the industry and on the society.
How many years did it take you work on it?
After the pandemic period, I did a mastering Fashion business at Parisian fashion school to deepen my knowledge in this industry. Taking the opportunity to further my education in the fashion business by studying at a prestigious Parisian fashion school is a great step towards launching my own clothing brand. The two years I spent studying and developing my project with the guidance of experienced lecturers must have provided me with valuable insights and knowledge about the industry. By preparing well and investing time in my studies, I have equipped myself with the necessary skills and expertise to navigate the challenges that come with starting one's own brand. The fashion industry is highly competitive, and having a solid foundation and understanding of the business aspects will undoubtedly give me an advantage. The combination of my education, passion, and cultural heritage will set my brand apart and make it unique in the market.
When did you exactly know you were finally ready for this new both exciting and challenging chapter of your life?
Launching a fashion brand requires dedication, perseverance, and a clear vision. During pandemic, my third girl was born. Having three kids after pandemic gives me reflection and inspired and motivated me to create something meaningful and impactful. Being a parent and an entrepreneur can be demanding, but it also brings a unique perspective and drive to succeed. I can use my brand to not only express my creativity but also to instill important values in my girls, such as hard work, determination, and following their dreams. It became a venture that not only brings me fulfillment but also serves as a positive influence on my girls' lives! I wanted also to create a brand that stood for something different - made to last.
Was, opening your own Maison, a life-long dream of yours?
Opening my own Maison, was not my life-long dream if a "life-long dream" refers to a dream, aspiration, or goal that someone has held onto or pursued for a significant part of their life. It is an exciting and challenging new endeavour for me. While it may not be a dream I've held onto for my entire life, it doesn't diminish the importance and significance of this new journey. Especially as I'm the mother of three. Embarking on something that is outside of our comfort zone and pursuing a passion is always thrilling, regardless of how long we've held onto the dream. It shows a willingness to take risks and embrace new opportunities. Although it may not have been a dream I’ve had since childhood, launching my Maison can still become a life-changing experience. It has the potential to shape my future and my kids' future, provide me with personal and professional growth, and bring about a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. Ultimately, whether a lifelong dream or a newfound passion, the important thing is that i am taking steps towards pursuing something that brings me joy and fulfillment.
Could you tell us more about the TER(G)EL’s philosophy?
TER[G]EL’s philosophy: - “Being more than having” This philosophy encourages us to focus on developing our character, values, and relationships, rather than solely pursuing external markers of success. It recognizes that material possessions and achievements may bring temporary satisfaction, but they do not necessarily lead to long-lasting happiness. That's why we are focusing on our product quality and its design for the must-have of our customer's wardrobe. The ultimate item long-lasting and giving them lifetime happiness. On the other hand, this slogan emphasized us to appreciate the present moment, find joy in simple pleasures, and cultivate a sense of gratitude for what we already have. Why? because our production is limited. Enjoying this aspect can help me focus on creating exceptional products and cultivating a loyal customers. - “Embrace the excitement and unknowns” is a mindset that encourages us to approach life with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to step outside of our comfort zones. It is about embracing the uncertainties and challenges that come with new experiences, rather than fearing or avoiding them. It reminds us that life is full of twists and turns and the unexpected, and that embracing the unknown can lead to new possibilities and breakthroughs. For example, this year's natural shades of gray will never be the same next year. Our brand offers a unique selling point that sets us apart from others in the market. One of the key factors contributing to this uniqueness is to use the yak down keeping its natural shades which can vary due to external factors such as climate change or the grazing conditions they experience while growing up. This variability in the yak down ensures that each product we create is truly one-of-a-kind. As climate patterns change, the down fibers may adapt and differ in shades and softness, resulting in products with distinct characteristics. By embracing these natural variations and challenging uncertainty we are able to offer our customers a truly unique and authentic product. Each item carries the story of the yaks and the environment they come from, making it a special piece for our customers to cherish. Covid crises changes fashion industry, the agility of the brands and consumers are forced to adapt to the new normal. The fashion industry has been forced to rethink their business models and adjust to the new normal. That’s why my brand has been well thought from the beginning to adapt and to be agile to the uncertain world. Finally: We could love to share these philosophies all over our customers. “Consider your purchase and enjoy your choices, Buy quality and consume less”.
TER(G)EL in three words?
EXQUISITE. TIMELESS. DISTINGUISHED.
How do you manage the fact that TER(G)EL is a unisex brand. Is it not sometimes difficult to create clothes, which suit well to women and men?
Indeed, creating unisex clothing that fits well on individuals of all genders can be a challenge. it is certainly not impossible. The traditional fashion industry has long been focused on designing clothing specifically for men or women, often neglecting the diverse range of body types and shapes that exist. However, our unisex brand is dedicated to addressing this challenge head-on. We recognize that everyone's body is unique, and we strive to create designs that accommodate a wide range of shapes and sizes. Our approach involves meticulous research, fit testing, and collaboration with individuals from different gender identities and body types. We understand that certain design elements may need to be tweaked or adjusted to ensure the best fit for everyone. We believe in providing options that allow for personalization and customization. Some of our products are on pre-order and customizable. Ultimately, our goal is to challenge the notion that clothing should be limited to specific gender categories. We strive to create unisex designs that accommodate and celebrate the diversity of body types, allowing everyone to feel comfortable, confident, and stylish in our garments.
As a fashion designer and a new founder and female entrepreneur, you have chosen to be a proud ambassador of the conscious SLOW Fashion and to focus on sustainability first. On a daily basis, how concretely does your commitment to the environment work?
Ter[g]el is a slow fashion brand that believes in creating high-quality, long-lasting garments that are designed to be worn for years rather than disposable fashion. This value aligns with the belief that "being is better than having," and promotes sustainability and conscious consumption. We design and produce our clothing with the intention of creating pieces that will last for years, rather than contributing to the fast fashion culture of disposable clothing. Quality over quantity. We refuse seasonal collections. In any case, producing pollutes, so we might as well produce with a limited quantity. By producing limited quantities and adopting pre-order business model for some items, we aim to reduce waste and avoid overproduction. The reasons that why i choose the yak down and the yak wool over than cashmere not only by its warmth and softness, but the materials have also eco-friendly and sustainability characteristics. The sustainability is ongoing journey, and it’s important to continuously evaluate and improve my environmental practices. For instance, my current project is to reduce waste by using the waste to create yak wool felt. It serves me to create some fashion accessories. Here are some characteristics of the yak wool which explains why it is sustainable material. - Yak wool is known for its exceptional warmth. It has a natural insulation property that makes it ideal for cold climates. It is warmer than cashmere, making it a preferred choice for winter clothing. - Softness: While cashmere is known for its softness, yak down is equally soft and luxurious. It has a similar feel to cashmere, providing comfort and a cozy experience. - Durability: Yak wool and yak down are known for their strength and resilience. The latter are more durable than cashmere and can withstand everyday wear and tear. This makes it a practical choice for long-lasting garments. For instance: A cashmere sweater is said to last 10 years maximum. A yak wool’s one lasts lifetime, even transgenerational. - Sustainability: Yak wool is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. Yak have a shorter tongue compared to goats, which limits their grazing capability. They primarily consume the superfluous or excess grass, leaving behind the healthier and more nutritious vegetation. This helps in preserving the grasslands and preventing overgrazing. On the other hand, goats are known for their indiscriminate eating habits. They eat almost anything they come across, including not only grass but also shrubs, tree bark, and even roots. This excessive and intensive grazing by goats can lead to desertification in certain regions of Mongolia. As a consequence of the high demand for cashmere, there are approximately 26 million goats in Mongolia for only 3 million people which is considerably higher compared to the population of the yaks which are about 1 million. By raising awareness about the environmental impacts of cashmere production and choosing sustainable alternatives like yak wool and yak down, consumers can play a role in reducing the demand for cashmere and encouraging more sustainable practices in this industry. - Yak does not ooze, so no chemical treatment is required. We privileged to keep the shades as natural as possible. Therefore, the yak wool is hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause allergies or irritation. This makes it suitable for people with sensitive skin or those who are allergic to other types of wool. - The yak wool is naturally waterproof and it does provide some protection against UV rays. It helps also regulate body temperature in extreme weather conditions. Overall, choosing yak wool over cashmere can be a practical and sustainable option, offering comparable softness, warmth, healthier and durability.
Where did you find your inspiration for this first collection?
As I reject the seasonal collection, these very first pieces has a unique and empowering story behind it. It centers around a woman who embraces and celebrates her body as it changes during motherhood. She recognizes the need for comfortable and oversized clothing that accommodates her evolving shape. In her search for the perfect fit, she discovers that some of the best options can be found in her partner's wardrobe. This realization sparks a journey of self-acceptance and confidence for our protagonist. She begins to experiment with her partner's clothing, finding comfort and style in the oversized pieces. As she wears these borrowed garments, she not only feels physically at ease but also gains a sense of empowerment and liberation. Inspired by my own experience, I have decided to create a unisex brand that caters to individuals of all genders, body types, and stages of life. The brand focuses on oversized and versatile designs that can be worn by anyone, regardless of their gender identity or body shape. It aims to break free from traditional gender norms and redefine how we perceive and appreciate clothing. This personal experience leads me to create a unisex brand that promotes self-acceptance, inclusivity, and body positivity. As a Tergel designer, I also draw my inspiration from both my western and Asian cultures. As I have a chance and inherited a culture that is both nomadic and Parisian. Both countries have a rich history and a unique aesthetic that I try to reflect in my clothes and that inspire many of the designs in the Ter[g]el's next products. In addition to my cultural heritage, I am also inspired by nature and the environment. Mongolia is known for its vast, unspoiled landscapes, and the natural beauty of our country is often reflected in my designs. I also pay close attention to the needs and desires of the Ter|[g]el's community and am inspired by their comments and requests. Overall, my goal is drawing on the best of Asian and western cultural heritage while embracing modern design principles and sustainable practices.
You spend your time between Paris where you are based and Mongolia where the production took place. How did you find a perfect balance between your city of adoption and your roots?
Even when living in a different country like Paris, it is important to stay connected to my roots and not forget where I come from. Whole my family is still in Mongolia. During my studies in Paris, I worked hard to pay my trips back to Ulaanbaatar each summer to spend time with family, friends and immerse myself in my birth country. Except pandemic period, I return to my birth country each year to be energized and enrich my experiences in my adoptive city. Vice versa. Designing in Paris offers multitude of advantages, as it is the capital of fashion. This is the huge opportunity for me to immerse myself in a dynamic environment where next trends, ideas and styles are constantly emerging. Indeed, producing in Mongolia can have certain advantages, such as no language barrier which allows for smoother communication and the opportunity to support local suppliers, workers and nomads. Having a strong understanding of the local culture and knowing the people can be beneficial. So between this both rich Asian and western history and heritage, a perfect balance is fusion. This fusion of cultures and ideas fosters creativity and innovation, pushing the boundaries of fashion and creating new trends.
How much ‘Parisian’ do you think you have become?
100%. Most of the time, real “Parisian” is not whose being born or having a long familial history, it is someone who has become “Parisian” typically involves immersing oneself in the local lifestyle, embracing the city’s unique customs, and adopting certain attitudes and behaviours commonly associated with Parisians. I have become “Parisian”… - When I realize that I’ll never meet a Parisian woman in a floral dress, wearing a beret and carrying a baguette on her bike, as you see in magazines everywhere... - When most of the clothes in my wardrobe became timeless pieces and good basics, I started to favour something non-ostentatious. - When I started driving without Waze just by basing some city landmarks or monuments. - Finally, when I have tasted the joys of enjoying a glass of moelleux after work on the terrasse.
What are you the proudest of being born in Mongolia?
Being born in Mongolia, it is natural for me to feel proud about my heritage and nomadic cultural background which is helped me being adopted quickly in different countries, especially in Paris. I have been travelling in many countries. Mongolia is the country of freedom, the blue sky and the big vast landscape. This is the only country I feel free… and I can reconnect with Mother Nature. This cultural heritage have likely shaped my perspective for the beauty of the natural world. Embracing and celebrating my Mongolian roots can continue to be a source of pride and a way to stay connect to my identity, no matter where life takes me. Now it is my duty to connect my kids to help them to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for their both ancestral roots.
What are your main expectations for ter[g]el in the near future?
We will continue to focus on creating products that make people's lives easier, cozy and more enjoyable. Not feeling guilty wearing luxury clothes. Everyone should be able to dress in whatever makes them feel comfortable and confident. As long as the items are purchased responsibly and ethically, there is no need to feel guilty about enjoying luxury fashion. During the manufacturing process from raw material to product, I saw that a third of the wool was thrown away. I was lucky to grown up in the family where frugality is in our blood. Nothing was thrown away in our home. It was so obvious for me to use this part (waste) of the wool. Therefore, from this summer I am working with local family-owned company to use this waste to make a yak wool felt that it serves me to create fashion accessories such as a bag, hats, slippers or even shoes. We believe in the quality of this exceptional and rare fiber that is Yak wool and yak down, called "khuuvur". We know that with the know-how of our craftsmen and the nomads work, we can continue create pieces of incomparable and lasting quality.
A Mongolian motto that inspired and guided you in your life, personal and professional
I have 4: Амьдралын өмнө нь байх. “Be before life “-this motto encourages me to live my lives to the fullest and make the most every moment. Especially since I have lost my little brother at his age 36. Тэнгэрийн хүрээнд нь байх. “Be in the sky’s embrace”. This one symbolizes the connection between humans and nature, reminding us to live in harmony with the natural world. Эзэн хичээвэл заяа хичээнэ. “When there is a will, there is a way”. If you endeavour, the fate will favour you. It means that if you have a strong determination to do something, then you can find a method and overcome whatever obstacle you’re facing. Эр хүн долоо дордож найм сэхдэг. “A man fails seven times and rises eight times ». Which means a person that fails will grow and eventually become better. It is a good reminder that when you fail, it does not entirely mean that you are a failure but rather someone growing and wiser. And my everyday motto: nothing is impossible ;-)
All the pictures are Courtesy of Mrs Tergel Gerelt
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